Objective: Prokineticin-1 (PROK1) is a recently described protein with a wide range of functions including tissue specific angiogenesis, modulation of inflammatory responses and regulation of haematopoiesis. PROK1 has...Objective: Prokineticin-1 (PROK1) is a recently described protein with a wide range of functions including tissue specific angiogenesis, modulation of inflammatory responses and regulation of haematopoiesis. PROK1 has been found in the steroidogenic organs like ovary, testis, adrenal and specially placenta and they have been found to have a role in development of the olfactory system and GnRH system. The aim was to update the role of PROK1 and PROK2 inhuman reproduction since the review was provided by Maldono-Perez (2007) on the potentials of prokineticins in reproduction. Design: A review of international scientific literature by a search of Pubmed and the authors files was done for citation of articles relevant to prokineticins in reproduction, be it its role in ovary, testis, uterus with special emphasis on implantation, normal pregnancy, in labour, pathophysiological states like tubal pregnancy, pcos, various genital tumours, and cases of isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with mutations with PROK2/ PROKR2 and studies detailing functional mechanisms. Results: In the normal cycle, PROK1 has been found to have important roles in implantation, regulating several genes like COX-2, IL-8, IL-11, CTGF related to implantation. Initially murine studies revealed a critical role of PROK2 pathway on olfactory bulb morphogenesis and GnRH secretion which was accidentally discovered and since then several studies on mutations in PROK2/PROKR2 showed that they underlie some case of KS in humans. Although in mouse heterozygote state is not associated with clinical phenotype, most of human mutations are heterozygous. Conclusions: Role of PROK-1 in the process of implantation, with a deeper understanding of the process success rates in IVF and ART can be improved, besides understanding the pathophysiology of tubal pregnancy. Further presence in ovarian follicles of PROK1 can be used to plan a strategy for treating pcos. Development of antagonism of PROK’S may be a helpful strategy in treating preterm labour.展开更多
Background: In Vitro Fertilization/Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (IVF/ICSI) represents the final step in the management of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Our objective was to study the association between PCOS...Background: In Vitro Fertilization/Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (IVF/ICSI) represents the final step in the management of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Our objective was to study the association between PCOS phenotypes and IVF/ICSI results in women admitted to Gynaecological Endoscopic Surgery and Human Reproductive Teaching Hospital (CHRACERH). Material and Method: We carried out a cohort study with historical-prospective data collection over a period of seven years (January 2016 to March 2023) at Chracerh. PCOS patients were subdivided into 4 subgroups A, B, C and D. Results: We recruited 128 patients including 64 PCOS patients divided into four phenotypes and 64 non-PCOS patients constituting the control group. Phenotype D without hyperandrogenism had used the lowest dose of gonadotropins, i.e. 1939.7 ± 454.3 IU, and had produced a greater quantity of estradiol on the day ovulation was triggered (6529.8 ± 4324.8 ng/ml). The average number of punctured follicles and mature oocytes were higher in the phenotype D group. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) occurred mainly in phenotype D (3/35), with an estimated prevalence of 2.3%. The fertilization rate seemed lower in the hyperandrogenic phenotypes A, B, C compared to the group without hyperandrogenism without significant difference (p = 0.461). The biological pregnancy rate and live birth rate were comparable between the different groups. Conclusion: Phenotype D used less dose of gonadotropins. Biological pregnancy and live birth rates were comparable between the different phenotypes.展开更多
Background: Since 2021, high-risk Human Papilloma Virus (HR-HPV) testing has been the recommended screening test for cervical cancer for all settings;either used alone in a “test and treat” strategy, or with a triag...Background: Since 2021, high-risk Human Papilloma Virus (HR-HPV) testing has been the recommended screening test for cervical cancer for all settings;either used alone in a “test and treat” strategy, or with a triage test, with or without biopsy, before treatment. Cameroon has rolled out immunization against HPV 16 and 18, but studies show a higher prevalence of non-16/18 HR-HPV types. Objectives: Determine the prevalence of precancerous lesions, in women with HR-HPV infection and evaluate association of digital cervicography (DC) VIA/VILI positivity with HPV serotype, as a measure of their contribution to precancer and cancer incidence. Methodology: The study was cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytic. It took place at the Etoug-Ebe and Ekoudoum Baptist Hospitals in Yaoundé, during the period April-September 2022. We reviewed the records of women screened for cervical cancer between February 2020 and December 2021 and evaluated the prevalence of lesions on digital cervicography (DC) with VIA/VILI for women positive for HR-HPV serotypes. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 for Windows. P values Results: We identified 315 cases with a positive HR-HPV deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) test, 224 (71.1%) had a DC VIA/VILI triage test done. Of these, 30 (13.4%) women had a positive DC VIA/VILI, with five women (2.2%) having lesions suggestive of cancer. Out of 11 cases positive for HPV 16 alone, 05 (45.5%) had a positive DC VIA/VILI test. Of the 14 cases positive for HPV 18 alone, 03 (21.4%) had a positive VIA/VILI, meanwhile only 19 (10.7%) of the 177 cases positive for non-16/18 HPV had a positive VIA/VILI test. Conclusion: A high proportion of women (13.4%) with HR HPV had a positive DC VIA/VILI, with a significant proportion (2.2%) having lesions suggestive of invasive cervical cancer HR-HPV serotype was associated with DC VIA/VILI positivity;HPV 16 had the strongest association (45.5%), followed by HPV 18 (21.4%), and non-16/18 HR-HPV (10.7%), suggesting a decreasing order of oncogenicity.展开更多
Objective:To elucidate the relationship among knowledge,attitudes,and practices regarding Covid-19 and their relationship with booster vaccination status among women with infertility.Methods:This questionnaire-based c...Objective:To elucidate the relationship among knowledge,attitudes,and practices regarding Covid-19 and their relationship with booster vaccination status among women with infertility.Methods:This questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was performed online and offline among women with infertility who visited an infertility clinic in Jakarta,Indonesia.We assessed the patient’s knowledge,attitudes,and practices regarding Covid-19 and their relationship with booster vaccination status and sociodemographic profile.Results:A total of 178 subjects participated in this study,and most participants(92.6%)had received booster Covid-19 vaccines.From the questionnaire,74.2%had good knowledge,and 99.4%had good attitudes regarding Covid-19;however,only 57.9%of patients had good practices.A weak positive correlation existed between knowledge and attitudes(r=0.11,P=0.13)and a moderate negative correlation between attitudes and practices(r=-0.44,P=0.56).Participants’knowledge about vaccines and infertility was correlated with booster vaccination status(P=0.04).Academic background(P=0.01)and attitudes(P=0.01)were also correlated with booster vaccination status.The significant determinants of hesitance of receiving Covid-19 booster vaccines were high school education or below(OR=0.08,95%CI 0.02-0.36)and poor practices(OR=0.21,95%CI 0.05-0.95).Conclusions:The majority of the participants had received the Covid-19 booster vaccine and had good knowledge and attitudes but poor practices regarding Covid-19.Most participants had poor knowledge about the relationship between infertility and the Covid-19 vaccine.The general population should be more informed and reminded about practices to prevent Covid-19 and the relationship between vaccination and fertility to increase the number of people who receive Covid-19 booster vaccines.展开更多
Conventional in-vitro fertilization(C-IVF)and intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI)are the two existing insemination methods presently in use in contemporary medically assisted reproduction treatments.While C-IVF ref...Conventional in-vitro fertilization(C-IVF)and intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI)are the two existing insemination methods presently in use in contemporary medically assisted reproduction treatments.While C-IVF refers to co-incubation of a cumulus-oocyte complex(COC)with a certain concentration of sperm suspension,ICSI is defined as the injection of a single spermatozoon directly into the ooplasm of a denuded oocyte.Although the balance of the literature is motivating enough to prefer C-IVF as the insemination method in non-male factor infertility cases,real world data reflect that majority of the practitioners are far from being convinced to do so[1].展开更多
Background Despite their low abundance in sperm, mitochondria have diverse functions in this cell type, includ-ing energy production, signalling and calcium regulation. In humans, sperm mitochondrial DNA content(mtDNA...Background Despite their low abundance in sperm, mitochondria have diverse functions in this cell type, includ-ing energy production, signalling and calcium regulation. In humans, sperm mitochondrial DNA content(mtDNAc) has been reported to be negatively linked to sperm function and fertility. Yet, the association between mtDNAc and sperm function in livestock remains unexplored. For this reason, this study aimed to shed some light on the link between mtDNAc and sperm function and fertilising potential in pigs. A qPCR method for mtDNAc quantification was optimised for pig sperm, and the association of this parameter with sperm motility, kinematics, mitochondrial activity, and fertility was subsequently interrogated.Results First, the q PCR method was found to be sensitive and efficient for mtDNAc quantification in pig sperm. By using this technique, mtDNAc was observed to be associated to sperm motility, mitochondrial activity and in vivo, but not in vitro, fertility outcomes. Specifically, sperm with low mtDNAc were seen to exhibit greater motility but decreased mitochondrial activity and intracellular reactive oxygen species. Interestingly, samples with lower mtD-NAc showed higher conception and farrowing rates, but similar in vitro fertilisation rates and embryo development, when compared to those with greater mtDNAc.Conclusions These findings enrich our comprehension of the association of mtDNAc with sperm biology, and lay the foundation for future research into employing this parameter as a molecular predictor for sperm function and fer-tility in livestock.展开更多
Background Protamination and condensation of sperm chromatin as well as DNA integrity play an essential role during fertilization and embryo development.In some mammals,like pigs,ejaculates are emitted in three separa...Background Protamination and condensation of sperm chromatin as well as DNA integrity play an essential role during fertilization and embryo development.In some mammals,like pigs,ejaculates are emitted in three separate fractions:pre-sperm,sperm-rich(SRF)and post sperm-rich(PSRF).These fractions are known to vary in volume,sperm concentration and quality,as well as in the origin and composition of seminal plasma(SP),with differences being also observed within the SRF one.Yet,whether disparities in the DNA integrity and chromatin condensation and pro-tamination of their sperm exist has not been interrogated.Results This study determined chromatin protamination(Chromomycin A3 test,CMA_(3)),condensation(Dibromobi-mane test,DBB),and DNA integrity(Comet assay)in the pig sperm contained in the first 10 m L of the SRF(SRF-P1),the remaining portion of the sperm-rich fraction(SRF-P2),and the post sperm-rich fraction(PSRF).While chromatin protamination was found to be similar between the different ejaculate fractions(P>0.05),chromatin condensation was seen to be greater in SRF-P1 and SRF-P2 than in the PSRF(P=0.018 and P=0.004,respectively).Regarding DNA integrity,no differences between fractions were observed(P>0.05).As the SRF-P1 has the highest sperm concentra-tion and ejaculate fractions are known to differ in antioxidant composition,the oxidative stress index(OSi)in SP,calcu-lated as total oxidant activity divided by total antioxidant capacity,was tested and confirmed to be higher in the SRF-P1 than in SRF-P2 and PSRF(0.42±0.06 vs.0.23±0.09 and 0.08±0.00,respectively;P<0.01);this index,in addition,was observed to be correlated to the sperm concentration of each fraction(Rs=0.973;P<0.001).Conclusion While sperm DNA integrity was not found to differ between ejaculate fractions,SRF-P1 and SRF-P2 were observed to exhibit greater chromatin condensation than the PSRF.This could be related to the OSi of each fraction.展开更多
The gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocol has emerged as an efficacious alternative to the GnRH agonist protocol for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) during in vitro fertilization (IVF) cy...The gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocol has emerged as an efficacious alternative to the GnRH agonist protocol for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) during in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles, and has been demonstrated applicability in infertile female patients with diverse ovarian responses. While the clinical implementation of the antagonist COH protocol has achieved widespread consensus, opportunities for refinement persist. Therefore, this review article focuses on the advantages and disadvantages of GnRH antagonist protocol, the selection of optimal standard doses, and the strategies for adjusting antagonist doses after the premature luteinizing hormone (LH) surge, aiming to provide more reasonable and scientific recommendations for the application of this scheme.展开更多
Introduction: Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. We carried out this study with the aim of evaluating the determinants of early survival of women with breast cancer in two hospitals in the ...Introduction: Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. We carried out this study with the aim of evaluating the determinants of early survival of women with breast cancer in two hospitals in the city of Yaoundé. Methodology: This was an analytical cross-sectional study with retrospective and prospective data collection of breast cancer patients during 6 years in two Hospitals of Yaoundé from January 2017 to December 2022. We consulted the files in search of epidemiological, clinical, paraclinical, therapeutic and survival variables. We completed the survival data directly from the patients or their relatives after their consent. We analyzed the data using SPSS version 23.0 software. Survival analysis was done using the Kaplan-Meier method and survival curves were compared using the Log Rank test. Factors influencing survival were evaluated using the Cox model. The significance threshold (P value) was set at 0.05 at 95% confidence interval. The study was approved by the ethics committees. Results: We included 500 patients whose ages varied between 22 and 83 years with a mean age of 47.19 ± 11.61 years. The most represented age group was 30 to 45 years old (45.8%). Less than half (41.6%) were postmenopausal. The most frequent reason for consultation was a breast lump (79.9%). The most common clinical stage at presentation was stage-3 (47.6%). Infiltrating ductal carcinoma was the most represented histological type (84.7%). The most represented histological grade was grade 2 (40.2%). Immunohistochemistry was performed in 34.20% of cases. The most represented molecular subtype was triple negative (41.8%) followed by Luminal A (30%). Concerning treatment, 17.2% did not receive any, 45% had surgery, 79.4% had chemotherapy, 34.2% hormone therapy, and 14.6% radiotherapy. The survival of patients with breast cancer at 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 years was respectively 90.6%;83.1%;74.2%;69.8% and 59.2%. The median survival was not reached;however, the first quartile (Q1) was 36 months (3 years). Independent factors associated with reduced survival were breast ulceration (aHR = 3.23;p = 0.002), bilateral tumor location (aHR = 9.2;p < 0.001) and clinical stage 3 (aHR = 1.72;p = 0.010) while patients classified ACR3 on imaging (aHR = 0.19;p = 0.005) had improved survival. Conclusion: Breast cancer survival from 1 to 5 years decrease from 90 to 59%. Mortality was highest in the first 40 months. Independent factors associated with reduced survival were breast ulceration, bilateral tumor location and clinical stage 3 while patients classified ACR3 on imaging had improved survival.展开更多
Objective To investigate the relationship and potential pathways between metal(loid)exposure and the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS)in women of childbearing age.Methods This case-control study included 200 pat...Objective To investigate the relationship and potential pathways between metal(loid)exposure and the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS)in women of childbearing age.Methods This case-control study included 200 patients with PCOS(cases)and 896 non-PCOS controls with the age of 25-37 years.The concentrations of 29 metal(loid)s in the follicular fluid(FF)and clinical indicators in the serum were measured in all participants.Logistic regression analysis and mediation analysis were conducted to evaluate the associations between metal(loid)exposure and PCOS risk and investigate the possible roles of clinical indicators,respectively.Results Logistic regression analysis revealed an association between high copper levels in FF and increased PCOS risk(highest vs.lowest quartile:adjusted odds ratio=2.94,95%confidence interval:1.83-4.72).A high luteinizing hormone/follicle-stimulating hormone ratio and elevated levels of testosterone and anti-Müllerian hormone(AMH)were strongly associated with increased PCOS risk induced by high copper exposure.The mediation analysis indicated a mediating effect of AMH in the association between copper exposure and PCOS risk.Conclusion Copper may affect PCOS risk through the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis,mediated by AMH.Copper exposure and internal AMH levels are important indicators for early warning of PCOS development.展开更多
Introduction :Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is the most common cause of primary adrenal insufficiency. It is a rare monogenic recessive disorder. In African setting in absence of neonatal screening, the diagnos...Introduction :Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is the most common cause of primary adrenal insufficiency. It is a rare monogenic recessive disorder. In African setting in absence of neonatal screening, the diagnosis is still late, based on a clinical approach. During this clinical enquiry, information from past history or pedigree of the patient is of a huge importance and may revealed surprises. Patients and Methods: In this observational study, we retrospectively included all patients with a diagnosis of CAH. The diagnosis of CAH was retained based on a high 17 hydroxyprogesterone level in addition to clinical and morphological findings. From patients’ files, we extracted data on family history of disease, pedigree, clinical findings and genetics when available of 39 patients from two endocrinopeadiatric centers. Results: In 13 (30%) families, we found 20 reported deaths of infant less than 12 months. In these 13 families, half of the patients followed had 21 hydroxylase deficiencies and had 11 hydroxylase deficiencies. Unsurprisingly, we suspected adrenal insufficiency in these patients at verbal autopsy even in families with a patient with 11 hydroxylase deficiency. Other non DSD malformations or genetic disorders with apparently no link with CAH were reported in 3 families. The father of a patient reported to have hypospadias. Conclusion: Each diagnosis of CAH made in our context is visible part of an iceberg. Behind a diagnosis of CAH made in our setting, is a long course of care, a dramatic past history revealing access to appropriate care disparity. Neonatal screening should thus be considered as an emergency.展开更多
Aim: To study the association between seminal oxidative stress and human sperm acrosin activity. Methods: It is a prospective study consisting of 30 infertile men and 12 fertile normozoospermic volunteers. A full hist...Aim: To study the association between seminal oxidative stress and human sperm acrosin activity. Methods: It is a prospective study consisting of 30 infertile men and 12 fertile normozoospermic volunteers. A full history, clinical examination and scrotal ultrasound were done to exclude other related factors such as smoking and varicocele. Presence of white blood cells (WBCs) in semen samples was evaluated by peroxidase staining. Lipid peroxidation in spermatozoa was induced after incubating with ferrous sulphate (4 mmol/L) and sodium ascorbate (20 mmol/L). Induced peroxidation of spermatozoa was assessed by determining the production of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). Acrosin activity was measured using the gelatinolysis technique. The halo diameters around the sperm heads and the percentages of spermatozoa showing halo formation were evaluated. An acrosin activity index was calculated by multiplying the halo diameter by the halo formation rate. Results: A significant difference was observed in acrosin activity parameters and TBARS levels between samples with WBCs (>1×106/mL of ejaculate) and those without. This difference was also noted between the normozoospermic and the oligoasthenoteratozoospermic semen samples. The TBARS production by spermatozoa had a significant negative correlation with the acrosin activity index (r = -0.89, P <0.001). Conclusion: The presence of oxidative stress in an individual with leukocytospermia and/or abnormal semen parameters is associated with impaired sperm function as measured by its acrosin activity.展开更多
Cytokines are a heterogeneous group of peptides that play an important role in intercellular communication, regulation of innate and specific immunity, hematopoiesis, interaction between the immune system and neuroend...Cytokines are a heterogeneous group of peptides that play an important role in intercellular communication, regulation of innate and specific immunity, hematopoiesis, interaction between the immune system and neuroendocrine network as well as in reproduction and development. Seminal plasma provides an immunological environ- ment for the semen and contains important biological response mediators. Numerous studies investigated the presence of various cytokines in the seminal plasma and tried to correlate cytokine levels with sperm quality and male fertility. However, the patho- physiological significance of seminal cytokines in sperm function is still not completely understood. The purpose of this review is to provide a brief summary of the extensive literature dealing with cytokines in the seminal plasma and to discuss the contribution of local cytokine immunity to male fertility.展开更多
Objective:To explore the effect of different fertilization time after human chorionic gonadotropin(HCG)injection on the outcome of fertilization in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer(IVF-ET).Methods:One thousand one ...Objective:To explore the effect of different fertilization time after human chorionic gonadotropin(HCG)injection on the outcome of fertilization in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer(IVF-ET).Methods:One thousand one hundred and forty IVF-ET cycles from January 2016 to August 2018 were analyzed retrospectively.According to the different fertilization time after injection of HCG divided into four groups:Group A(38.0 h~39.0 h),Group B(39.1 h~40.0 h),Group C(40.1 h~41.0 h),and Group D(41.1 h~42.0 h).The normal fertilization rate,the normal cleavage rate,the embryo utilization rate,the high-quality embryo rate,the clinical pregnancy rate,the implantation rate,and the spontaneous abortion rate were analyzed among the groups.Then we investigated the effect of different promotion methods on the outcome of fertilization during the optimal fertilization time.Results:There was no significant difference in 2PN cleavage rate,available embryo rate,clinical pregnancy rate,implantation rate and abortion rate among the four groups(P>0.05).The high-quality embryo rate in Group D(44.6%)was the highest,and was significantly different among the four groups(P<0.05).The normal fertilization rate in Group D(71.6%)was the highest,and was significantly different among the four groups(P<0.05).The normal fertilization rate(78.1%)of antagonist group was significantly higher than other groups(P<0.05).Conclusion:The different fertilization time after HCG injection have effects on high-quality embryo rate and normal fertilization rate of patients in IVF-ET.The appropriate fertilization time of patients in IVF-ET was 41 h~42 h after HCG injection in our reproductive center,improved the clinical pregnancy rate and reduced the early abortion rate.The GnRH-ant protocol is superior to other protocol in IVF-ET.展开更多
When we look back at-more than four decades-the history of assisted reproductive treatments(ART),a continuous effort to optimise laboratory conditions and to improve treatment protocols can be seen.In basic terms,the ...When we look back at-more than four decades-the history of assisted reproductive treatments(ART),a continuous effort to optimise laboratory conditions and to improve treatment protocols can be seen.In basic terms,the aim of research about culture media and laboratory environments is to create as more physiological condition as possible,which means reducing the gap between the not-fully-known in vivo conditions and their in vitro counterparts.展开更多
Yes-associated protein 1(YAP1)is a downstream effector of the Hippo signaling pathway,and it is involved in tumorigenesis,tissue repair,growth,and development.In this review,the biological roles and the mechanisms of ...Yes-associated protein 1(YAP1)is a downstream effector of the Hippo signaling pathway,and it is involved in tumorigenesis,tissue repair,growth,and development.In this review,the biological roles and the mechanisms of YAP1 in mediating stem cell fate decisions are discussed,including cell proliferation,differentiation,and apoptosis.In general,YAP1 promotes the proliferation and differentiation of stem cells,including embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells.It inhibits apoptosis by binding to the transcription factors,e.g.,transcriptional enhanced associate domain(TEAD),Smad,runt-related transcription factor 1/2,p73,p63,and Erb84,to maintain tissue homeostasis.The translocalization of YAP1 in cellular nuclei and the phosphorylation in the cytoplasm work as important and unusual events for the activation of YAP1.Moreover,YAP1 serves as the crosstalk for the Hippo pathway and other signaling pathways,including the Wnt and Notch pathways.It is highlighted in this review that YAP1 is an essential regulator for stem cells that have significant applications in regenerative medicine and reproductive medicine.展开更多
The activation and development of primordial follicles is the key to the maturation of female gametes.Premature ovarian insufficiency(POI)patients are unable to complete the primordial follicle activation and developm...The activation and development of primordial follicles is the key to the maturation of female gametes.Premature ovarian insufficiency(POI)patients are unable to complete the primordial follicle activation and development due to follicular dormancy and unbalanced developmental regulation in the body,leading to female infertility.Ovarian tissue in vitro activation(IVA)technology has become a new way to solve the problem of patients who cannot auto-activate primordial follicles to obtain their own mature oocytes.In IVA research,signaling pathways such as PI3K/PTEN/Akt and Hippo have become the focus of current research.This review will describe the relevant research progress and clinical application of the IVA mechanism,and provide a reference for clinical research on ovarian tissue culture and activation in vitro.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the effects of female body mass index on embryo development and assisted reproductive technology outcomes,aiming to provide better treatment for patients with different body mass index and pro...Objective:To investigate the effects of female body mass index on embryo development and assisted reproductive technology outcomes,aiming to provide better treatment for patients with different body mass index and provide reference for clinical treatment.Methods:The study retrospectively collected data of 3783 patients who received their first fresh embryo transfer and were ovulated by a long protocol at the Reproductive Medicine Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University from January 2015 to October 2021.Patients were divided into four groups based on body mass index(BMI):low weight group,normal weight group,overweight group and obese group.The normal weight group was used as a control to compare the basic information,assisted reproductive technology process,embryo development and assisted reproductive technology outcomes between different groups.Results:Analyzing patients'basic information,we found that the duration of infertility was significantly longer in obese women(P=0.007).Basal hormone levels in the overweight and obese groups were lower than those in the normal group(P<0.05).Basal Follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH),basal Luteinizing hormone(LH),basal Estradiol(E2),basal Progesterone(P),and anti-Mullerian hormone(AMH)in the obese group were lower than the normal weight group(P<0.05),and the number of antral follicle counting(AFC)was reduced in the obese group(P=0.011).The overweight group only showed a decrease in E2 and P levels(P<0.05).During the ART,there was a significant difference in Gonadotropin(Gn)dosage among the four groups,with the obese group was the most,followed by the overweight group,and the low weight group was the least(P<0.001).Gn days were increased in the obese group(P<0.001).LH,E2,and P on trigger day were all lower in the overweight and obese groups than in the normal weight group(P<0.05).Comparing the embryo development process,we found that the blastocysts of the obese group showed delayed development at the stages of pronuclei disappearance,four-cell and blastocyst formation(P<0.05).The ART outcomes were worse in the obese group,the clinical pregnancy rate(P=0.044)and live birth rate(P=0.036)were reduced in the obese group.After logistic regression,obesity was found to be a risk factor for clinical pregnancy(OR=0.683,95%CI:0.479-0.973,P=0.035)and live birth(OR=0.662,95%CI:0.459-0.954,P=0.027).Female age was a risk factor for biochemical pregnancy,clinical pregnancy and live birth(P<0.05).Conclusion:Female obesity prolongs the duration of infertility,causes endocrine disorders,increases Gn dosage and days,and leads to poorer assisted reproductive technology outcomes.Female obesity delays the blastocyst development process and presents as a risk factor for clinical pregnancy and live birth.展开更多
Background:The analysis of chromatin integrity has become an important determinant of sperm quality.In frozenthawed bovine sperm,neither the sequence of post-thaw injury events nor the dynamics of different types of s...Background:The analysis of chromatin integrity has become an important determinant of sperm quality.In frozenthawed bovine sperm,neither the sequence of post-thaw injury events nor the dynamics of different types of sperm DNA breaks are well understood.The aim of the present work was to describe such sperm degradation aftermath focusing on DNA damage dynamics,and to assess if this parameter can predict pregnancy rates in cattle.Results:A total of 75 cryopreserved ejaculates from 25 Holstein bulls were evaluated at two post-thawing periods(0-2 h and 2-4 h),analyzing global and double-stranded DNA damage through alkaline and neutral Comet assays,chromatin deprotamination and decondensation,sperm motility,viability,acrosomal status,and intracellular levels of total ROS,superoxides and calcium.Insemination of 59,605 females was conducted using sperm from the same bulls,thus obtaining the non-return to estrus rates after 90 d(NRR).Results showed an increased rate of double-stranded breaks in the first period(0-2 h:1.29±1.01%/h vs.2-4 h:0.13±1.37%/h;P<0.01),whereas the rate of sperm with moderate+high single-stranded breaks was higher in the second period(0-2 h:3.52±7.77%/h vs.2-4h:21.06±11.69%/h;P<0.0001).Regarding sperm physiology,viability decrease rate was different between the two periods(0-2 h:-4.49±1.79%/h vs.2-4 h:-2.50±3.39%/h;P=0.032),but the progressive motility decrease rate was constant throughout post-thawing incubation(0-2 h:-4.70±3.42%/h vs.2-4 h:-1.89±2.97%/h;P>0.05).Finally,whereas no correlations between bull fertility and any dynamic parameter were found,there were correlations between the NRR and the basal percentage of highly-damaged sperm assessed with the alkaline Comet(Rs=-0.563,P=0.003),between NRR and basal progressive motility(Rs=0.511,P=0.009),and between NRR and sperm with high ROS at 4 h post-thaw(Rs=0.564,P=0.003).Conclusion:The statistically significant correlations found between intracellular ROS,sperm viability,sperm motility,DNA damage and chromatin deprotamination suggested a sequence of events all driven by oxidative stress,where viability and motility would be affected first and sperm chromatin would be altered at a later stage,thus suggesting that bovine sperm should be used for fertilization within 2 h post-thaw.Fertility correlations supported that the assessment of global DNA damage through the Comet assay may help predict bull fertility.展开更多
Co-signaling molecules are molecules whose ligands on the surface of cells interact with receptors on the surface of T cells to convey stimulatory or inhibitory signals to regulate immune responses.Co-signaling molecu...Co-signaling molecules are molecules whose ligands on the surface of cells interact with receptors on the surface of T cells to convey stimulatory or inhibitory signals to regulate immune responses.Co-signaling molecules play an important role in tumor and autoimmune diseases.Lately,studies have shown that co-signaling molecules are also involved in the regulation of maternal-fetal immune tolerance,and abnormalities of co-signaling molecules may lead to the imbalance of maternal-fetal immune tolerance,resulting in recurrent abortion,eclampsia and other pregnancy complications.ICOSL/ICOS is a ligand and receptor of costimulatory signals,which regulates maternal and fetal immune tolerance by participating in T cell differentiation and Th1 and Th2 cytokine secretion.Therefore,this article reviews the structure of ICOSL/ICOS,the distribution of ICOSL/ICOS at the maternal-fetal interface and its immune regulation during pregnancy,in order to provide new ideas for the future study of immunotherapy of pregnancy complications caused by abnormal co-signaling molecules.展开更多
文摘Objective: Prokineticin-1 (PROK1) is a recently described protein with a wide range of functions including tissue specific angiogenesis, modulation of inflammatory responses and regulation of haematopoiesis. PROK1 has been found in the steroidogenic organs like ovary, testis, adrenal and specially placenta and they have been found to have a role in development of the olfactory system and GnRH system. The aim was to update the role of PROK1 and PROK2 inhuman reproduction since the review was provided by Maldono-Perez (2007) on the potentials of prokineticins in reproduction. Design: A review of international scientific literature by a search of Pubmed and the authors files was done for citation of articles relevant to prokineticins in reproduction, be it its role in ovary, testis, uterus with special emphasis on implantation, normal pregnancy, in labour, pathophysiological states like tubal pregnancy, pcos, various genital tumours, and cases of isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with mutations with PROK2/ PROKR2 and studies detailing functional mechanisms. Results: In the normal cycle, PROK1 has been found to have important roles in implantation, regulating several genes like COX-2, IL-8, IL-11, CTGF related to implantation. Initially murine studies revealed a critical role of PROK2 pathway on olfactory bulb morphogenesis and GnRH secretion which was accidentally discovered and since then several studies on mutations in PROK2/PROKR2 showed that they underlie some case of KS in humans. Although in mouse heterozygote state is not associated with clinical phenotype, most of human mutations are heterozygous. Conclusions: Role of PROK-1 in the process of implantation, with a deeper understanding of the process success rates in IVF and ART can be improved, besides understanding the pathophysiology of tubal pregnancy. Further presence in ovarian follicles of PROK1 can be used to plan a strategy for treating pcos. Development of antagonism of PROK’S may be a helpful strategy in treating preterm labour.
文摘Background: In Vitro Fertilization/Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (IVF/ICSI) represents the final step in the management of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Our objective was to study the association between PCOS phenotypes and IVF/ICSI results in women admitted to Gynaecological Endoscopic Surgery and Human Reproductive Teaching Hospital (CHRACERH). Material and Method: We carried out a cohort study with historical-prospective data collection over a period of seven years (January 2016 to March 2023) at Chracerh. PCOS patients were subdivided into 4 subgroups A, B, C and D. Results: We recruited 128 patients including 64 PCOS patients divided into four phenotypes and 64 non-PCOS patients constituting the control group. Phenotype D without hyperandrogenism had used the lowest dose of gonadotropins, i.e. 1939.7 ± 454.3 IU, and had produced a greater quantity of estradiol on the day ovulation was triggered (6529.8 ± 4324.8 ng/ml). The average number of punctured follicles and mature oocytes were higher in the phenotype D group. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) occurred mainly in phenotype D (3/35), with an estimated prevalence of 2.3%. The fertilization rate seemed lower in the hyperandrogenic phenotypes A, B, C compared to the group without hyperandrogenism without significant difference (p = 0.461). The biological pregnancy rate and live birth rate were comparable between the different groups. Conclusion: Phenotype D used less dose of gonadotropins. Biological pregnancy and live birth rates were comparable between the different phenotypes.
文摘Background: Since 2021, high-risk Human Papilloma Virus (HR-HPV) testing has been the recommended screening test for cervical cancer for all settings;either used alone in a “test and treat” strategy, or with a triage test, with or without biopsy, before treatment. Cameroon has rolled out immunization against HPV 16 and 18, but studies show a higher prevalence of non-16/18 HR-HPV types. Objectives: Determine the prevalence of precancerous lesions, in women with HR-HPV infection and evaluate association of digital cervicography (DC) VIA/VILI positivity with HPV serotype, as a measure of their contribution to precancer and cancer incidence. Methodology: The study was cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytic. It took place at the Etoug-Ebe and Ekoudoum Baptist Hospitals in Yaoundé, during the period April-September 2022. We reviewed the records of women screened for cervical cancer between February 2020 and December 2021 and evaluated the prevalence of lesions on digital cervicography (DC) with VIA/VILI for women positive for HR-HPV serotypes. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 for Windows. P values Results: We identified 315 cases with a positive HR-HPV deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) test, 224 (71.1%) had a DC VIA/VILI triage test done. Of these, 30 (13.4%) women had a positive DC VIA/VILI, with five women (2.2%) having lesions suggestive of cancer. Out of 11 cases positive for HPV 16 alone, 05 (45.5%) had a positive DC VIA/VILI test. Of the 14 cases positive for HPV 18 alone, 03 (21.4%) had a positive VIA/VILI, meanwhile only 19 (10.7%) of the 177 cases positive for non-16/18 HPV had a positive VIA/VILI test. Conclusion: A high proportion of women (13.4%) with HR HPV had a positive DC VIA/VILI, with a significant proportion (2.2%) having lesions suggestive of invasive cervical cancer HR-HPV serotype was associated with DC VIA/VILI positivity;HPV 16 had the strongest association (45.5%), followed by HPV 18 (21.4%), and non-16/18 HR-HPV (10.7%), suggesting a decreasing order of oncogenicity.
文摘Objective:To elucidate the relationship among knowledge,attitudes,and practices regarding Covid-19 and their relationship with booster vaccination status among women with infertility.Methods:This questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was performed online and offline among women with infertility who visited an infertility clinic in Jakarta,Indonesia.We assessed the patient’s knowledge,attitudes,and practices regarding Covid-19 and their relationship with booster vaccination status and sociodemographic profile.Results:A total of 178 subjects participated in this study,and most participants(92.6%)had received booster Covid-19 vaccines.From the questionnaire,74.2%had good knowledge,and 99.4%had good attitudes regarding Covid-19;however,only 57.9%of patients had good practices.A weak positive correlation existed between knowledge and attitudes(r=0.11,P=0.13)and a moderate negative correlation between attitudes and practices(r=-0.44,P=0.56).Participants’knowledge about vaccines and infertility was correlated with booster vaccination status(P=0.04).Academic background(P=0.01)and attitudes(P=0.01)were also correlated with booster vaccination status.The significant determinants of hesitance of receiving Covid-19 booster vaccines were high school education or below(OR=0.08,95%CI 0.02-0.36)and poor practices(OR=0.21,95%CI 0.05-0.95).Conclusions:The majority of the participants had received the Covid-19 booster vaccine and had good knowledge and attitudes but poor practices regarding Covid-19.Most participants had poor knowledge about the relationship between infertility and the Covid-19 vaccine.The general population should be more informed and reminded about practices to prevent Covid-19 and the relationship between vaccination and fertility to increase the number of people who receive Covid-19 booster vaccines.
文摘Conventional in-vitro fertilization(C-IVF)and intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI)are the two existing insemination methods presently in use in contemporary medically assisted reproduction treatments.While C-IVF refers to co-incubation of a cumulus-oocyte complex(COC)with a certain concentration of sperm suspension,ICSI is defined as the injection of a single spermatozoon directly into the ooplasm of a denuded oocyte.Although the balance of the literature is motivating enough to prefer C-IVF as the insemination method in non-male factor infertility cases,real world data reflect that majority of the practitioners are far from being convinced to do so[1].
基金funded by the Ministry of Science and Innovation,Spain (AGL2017-88329-R, FPU18/00666 and PID2020-113320RB-I00)the Regional Government of Catalonia,Spain (2017-SGR-1229, 2020-FI-B-00412 and 2020-SGR-0900)the Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA)。
文摘Background Despite their low abundance in sperm, mitochondria have diverse functions in this cell type, includ-ing energy production, signalling and calcium regulation. In humans, sperm mitochondrial DNA content(mtDNAc) has been reported to be negatively linked to sperm function and fertility. Yet, the association between mtDNAc and sperm function in livestock remains unexplored. For this reason, this study aimed to shed some light on the link between mtDNAc and sperm function and fertilising potential in pigs. A qPCR method for mtDNAc quantification was optimised for pig sperm, and the association of this parameter with sperm motility, kinematics, mitochondrial activity, and fertility was subsequently interrogated.Results First, the q PCR method was found to be sensitive and efficient for mtDNAc quantification in pig sperm. By using this technique, mtDNAc was observed to be associated to sperm motility, mitochondrial activity and in vivo, but not in vitro, fertility outcomes. Specifically, sperm with low mtDNAc were seen to exhibit greater motility but decreased mitochondrial activity and intracellular reactive oxygen species. Interestingly, samples with lower mtD-NAc showed higher conception and farrowing rates, but similar in vitro fertilisation rates and embryo development, when compared to those with greater mtDNAc.Conclusions These findings enrich our comprehension of the association of mtDNAc with sperm biology, and lay the foundation for future research into employing this parameter as a molecular predictor for sperm function and fer-tility in livestock.
基金This research was supported by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation scheme under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement No.801342(Tecniospring INDUSTRYGrant:TECSPR-19-1-0003)+4 种基金the Ministry of Science and Innovation,Spain(Grants:PID2020-113320RB-I00,PID2020-113493RB-I00,RYC2021-034546-I and RYC2021-034764-I)the Catalan Agency for Management of University and Research Grants,Regional Government of Catalonia,Spain(Grants:2017-SGR-1229 and 2021-SGR-00900)the Seneca Foundation,Regional Government of Murcia,Spain(Grant:21935/PI/22)La Marato de TV3 Foundation(Grant:214/857-202039)and the Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies(ICREA).
文摘Background Protamination and condensation of sperm chromatin as well as DNA integrity play an essential role during fertilization and embryo development.In some mammals,like pigs,ejaculates are emitted in three separate fractions:pre-sperm,sperm-rich(SRF)and post sperm-rich(PSRF).These fractions are known to vary in volume,sperm concentration and quality,as well as in the origin and composition of seminal plasma(SP),with differences being also observed within the SRF one.Yet,whether disparities in the DNA integrity and chromatin condensation and pro-tamination of their sperm exist has not been interrogated.Results This study determined chromatin protamination(Chromomycin A3 test,CMA_(3)),condensation(Dibromobi-mane test,DBB),and DNA integrity(Comet assay)in the pig sperm contained in the first 10 m L of the SRF(SRF-P1),the remaining portion of the sperm-rich fraction(SRF-P2),and the post sperm-rich fraction(PSRF).While chromatin protamination was found to be similar between the different ejaculate fractions(P>0.05),chromatin condensation was seen to be greater in SRF-P1 and SRF-P2 than in the PSRF(P=0.018 and P=0.004,respectively).Regarding DNA integrity,no differences between fractions were observed(P>0.05).As the SRF-P1 has the highest sperm concentra-tion and ejaculate fractions are known to differ in antioxidant composition,the oxidative stress index(OSi)in SP,calcu-lated as total oxidant activity divided by total antioxidant capacity,was tested and confirmed to be higher in the SRF-P1 than in SRF-P2 and PSRF(0.42±0.06 vs.0.23±0.09 and 0.08±0.00,respectively;P<0.01);this index,in addition,was observed to be correlated to the sperm concentration of each fraction(Rs=0.973;P<0.001).Conclusion While sperm DNA integrity was not found to differ between ejaculate fractions,SRF-P1 and SRF-P2 were observed to exhibit greater chromatin condensation than the PSRF.This could be related to the OSi of each fraction.
基金Hainan Province Major Science and Technology Plan Projects(No.ZDKJ2021037,ZDKJ2017007)National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81960283),and Co-funded by the Hainan Provincial Academician Innovation Platform Research Project and the Hainan Provincial Clinical Medicine Center Construction Project。
文摘The gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocol has emerged as an efficacious alternative to the GnRH agonist protocol for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) during in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles, and has been demonstrated applicability in infertile female patients with diverse ovarian responses. While the clinical implementation of the antagonist COH protocol has achieved widespread consensus, opportunities for refinement persist. Therefore, this review article focuses on the advantages and disadvantages of GnRH antagonist protocol, the selection of optimal standard doses, and the strategies for adjusting antagonist doses after the premature luteinizing hormone (LH) surge, aiming to provide more reasonable and scientific recommendations for the application of this scheme.
文摘Introduction: Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. We carried out this study with the aim of evaluating the determinants of early survival of women with breast cancer in two hospitals in the city of Yaoundé. Methodology: This was an analytical cross-sectional study with retrospective and prospective data collection of breast cancer patients during 6 years in two Hospitals of Yaoundé from January 2017 to December 2022. We consulted the files in search of epidemiological, clinical, paraclinical, therapeutic and survival variables. We completed the survival data directly from the patients or their relatives after their consent. We analyzed the data using SPSS version 23.0 software. Survival analysis was done using the Kaplan-Meier method and survival curves were compared using the Log Rank test. Factors influencing survival were evaluated using the Cox model. The significance threshold (P value) was set at 0.05 at 95% confidence interval. The study was approved by the ethics committees. Results: We included 500 patients whose ages varied between 22 and 83 years with a mean age of 47.19 ± 11.61 years. The most represented age group was 30 to 45 years old (45.8%). Less than half (41.6%) were postmenopausal. The most frequent reason for consultation was a breast lump (79.9%). The most common clinical stage at presentation was stage-3 (47.6%). Infiltrating ductal carcinoma was the most represented histological type (84.7%). The most represented histological grade was grade 2 (40.2%). Immunohistochemistry was performed in 34.20% of cases. The most represented molecular subtype was triple negative (41.8%) followed by Luminal A (30%). Concerning treatment, 17.2% did not receive any, 45% had surgery, 79.4% had chemotherapy, 34.2% hormone therapy, and 14.6% radiotherapy. The survival of patients with breast cancer at 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 years was respectively 90.6%;83.1%;74.2%;69.8% and 59.2%. The median survival was not reached;however, the first quartile (Q1) was 36 months (3 years). Independent factors associated with reduced survival were breast ulceration (aHR = 3.23;p = 0.002), bilateral tumor location (aHR = 9.2;p < 0.001) and clinical stage 3 (aHR = 1.72;p = 0.010) while patients classified ACR3 on imaging (aHR = 0.19;p = 0.005) had improved survival. Conclusion: Breast cancer survival from 1 to 5 years decrease from 90 to 59%. Mortality was highest in the first 40 months. Independent factors associated with reduced survival were breast ulceration, bilateral tumor location and clinical stage 3 while patients classified ACR3 on imaging had improved survival.
基金supported by the National Key Research&Development Program of the Ministry of Science and Technology of China[Grant No.2022YFE01349002023YFC3708305]+2 种基金the Strategy Priority Research Program(Category B)of Chinese Academy of Sciences[No.XDB0750300]the Yunnan Major Scientific and Technological Projects[Grant No.202202AG050019]the National Natural Science Foundation of China[Grant No.42077390].
文摘Objective To investigate the relationship and potential pathways between metal(loid)exposure and the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS)in women of childbearing age.Methods This case-control study included 200 patients with PCOS(cases)and 896 non-PCOS controls with the age of 25-37 years.The concentrations of 29 metal(loid)s in the follicular fluid(FF)and clinical indicators in the serum were measured in all participants.Logistic regression analysis and mediation analysis were conducted to evaluate the associations between metal(loid)exposure and PCOS risk and investigate the possible roles of clinical indicators,respectively.Results Logistic regression analysis revealed an association between high copper levels in FF and increased PCOS risk(highest vs.lowest quartile:adjusted odds ratio=2.94,95%confidence interval:1.83-4.72).A high luteinizing hormone/follicle-stimulating hormone ratio and elevated levels of testosterone and anti-Müllerian hormone(AMH)were strongly associated with increased PCOS risk induced by high copper exposure.The mediation analysis indicated a mediating effect of AMH in the association between copper exposure and PCOS risk.Conclusion Copper may affect PCOS risk through the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis,mediated by AMH.Copper exposure and internal AMH levels are important indicators for early warning of PCOS development.
文摘Introduction :Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is the most common cause of primary adrenal insufficiency. It is a rare monogenic recessive disorder. In African setting in absence of neonatal screening, the diagnosis is still late, based on a clinical approach. During this clinical enquiry, information from past history or pedigree of the patient is of a huge importance and may revealed surprises. Patients and Methods: In this observational study, we retrospectively included all patients with a diagnosis of CAH. The diagnosis of CAH was retained based on a high 17 hydroxyprogesterone level in addition to clinical and morphological findings. From patients’ files, we extracted data on family history of disease, pedigree, clinical findings and genetics when available of 39 patients from two endocrinopeadiatric centers. Results: In 13 (30%) families, we found 20 reported deaths of infant less than 12 months. In these 13 families, half of the patients followed had 21 hydroxylase deficiencies and had 11 hydroxylase deficiencies. Unsurprisingly, we suspected adrenal insufficiency in these patients at verbal autopsy even in families with a patient with 11 hydroxylase deficiency. Other non DSD malformations or genetic disorders with apparently no link with CAH were reported in 3 families. The father of a patient reported to have hypospadias. Conclusion: Each diagnosis of CAH made in our context is visible part of an iceberg. Behind a diagnosis of CAH made in our setting, is a long course of care, a dramatic past history revealing access to appropriate care disparity. Neonatal screening should thus be considered as an emergency.
文摘Aim: To study the association between seminal oxidative stress and human sperm acrosin activity. Methods: It is a prospective study consisting of 30 infertile men and 12 fertile normozoospermic volunteers. A full history, clinical examination and scrotal ultrasound were done to exclude other related factors such as smoking and varicocele. Presence of white blood cells (WBCs) in semen samples was evaluated by peroxidase staining. Lipid peroxidation in spermatozoa was induced after incubating with ferrous sulphate (4 mmol/L) and sodium ascorbate (20 mmol/L). Induced peroxidation of spermatozoa was assessed by determining the production of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). Acrosin activity was measured using the gelatinolysis technique. The halo diameters around the sperm heads and the percentages of spermatozoa showing halo formation were evaluated. An acrosin activity index was calculated by multiplying the halo diameter by the halo formation rate. Results: A significant difference was observed in acrosin activity parameters and TBARS levels between samples with WBCs (>1×106/mL of ejaculate) and those without. This difference was also noted between the normozoospermic and the oligoasthenoteratozoospermic semen samples. The TBARS production by spermatozoa had a significant negative correlation with the acrosin activity index (r = -0.89, P <0.001). Conclusion: The presence of oxidative stress in an individual with leukocytospermia and/or abnormal semen parameters is associated with impaired sperm function as measured by its acrosin activity.
文摘Cytokines are a heterogeneous group of peptides that play an important role in intercellular communication, regulation of innate and specific immunity, hematopoiesis, interaction between the immune system and neuroendocrine network as well as in reproduction and development. Seminal plasma provides an immunological environ- ment for the semen and contains important biological response mediators. Numerous studies investigated the presence of various cytokines in the seminal plasma and tried to correlate cytokine levels with sperm quality and male fertility. However, the patho- physiological significance of seminal cytokines in sperm function is still not completely understood. The purpose of this review is to provide a brief summary of the extensive literature dealing with cytokines in the seminal plasma and to discuss the contribution of local cytokine immunity to male fertility.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81460236)Major Science and Technology Program of Hainan Province(No.ZDKJ2017007)Innovative Project for Postgraduate of Hainan Province(No.Hys2018-281)。
文摘Objective:To explore the effect of different fertilization time after human chorionic gonadotropin(HCG)injection on the outcome of fertilization in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer(IVF-ET).Methods:One thousand one hundred and forty IVF-ET cycles from January 2016 to August 2018 were analyzed retrospectively.According to the different fertilization time after injection of HCG divided into four groups:Group A(38.0 h~39.0 h),Group B(39.1 h~40.0 h),Group C(40.1 h~41.0 h),and Group D(41.1 h~42.0 h).The normal fertilization rate,the normal cleavage rate,the embryo utilization rate,the high-quality embryo rate,the clinical pregnancy rate,the implantation rate,and the spontaneous abortion rate were analyzed among the groups.Then we investigated the effect of different promotion methods on the outcome of fertilization during the optimal fertilization time.Results:There was no significant difference in 2PN cleavage rate,available embryo rate,clinical pregnancy rate,implantation rate and abortion rate among the four groups(P>0.05).The high-quality embryo rate in Group D(44.6%)was the highest,and was significantly different among the four groups(P<0.05).The normal fertilization rate in Group D(71.6%)was the highest,and was significantly different among the four groups(P<0.05).The normal fertilization rate(78.1%)of antagonist group was significantly higher than other groups(P<0.05).Conclusion:The different fertilization time after HCG injection have effects on high-quality embryo rate and normal fertilization rate of patients in IVF-ET.The appropriate fertilization time of patients in IVF-ET was 41 h~42 h after HCG injection in our reproductive center,improved the clinical pregnancy rate and reduced the early abortion rate.The GnRH-ant protocol is superior to other protocol in IVF-ET.
文摘When we look back at-more than four decades-the history of assisted reproductive treatments(ART),a continuous effort to optimise laboratory conditions and to improve treatment protocols can be seen.In basic terms,the aim of research about culture media and laboratory environments is to create as more physiological condition as possible,which means reducing the gap between the not-fully-known in vivo conditions and their in vitro counterparts.
基金This work was supported by grants from the National Nature Science Foundation of China(32170862,31872845)Major Scientific and Technological Projects for Collaborative Prevention and Control of Birth Defect in Hunan Province(2019SK1012)+4 种基金Key Grant of Research and Development in Hunan Province(2020DK2002)High-Level Talent Gathering Project in Hunan Province(2018RS3066)Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province(2020JJ5383,2021JJ40365)Health Commission Foundation of Hunan Province(202104052273,202102050927)Hunan Province College Student Research Learning and Innovative Experiment Project(S202010542084).
文摘Yes-associated protein 1(YAP1)is a downstream effector of the Hippo signaling pathway,and it is involved in tumorigenesis,tissue repair,growth,and development.In this review,the biological roles and the mechanisms of YAP1 in mediating stem cell fate decisions are discussed,including cell proliferation,differentiation,and apoptosis.In general,YAP1 promotes the proliferation and differentiation of stem cells,including embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells.It inhibits apoptosis by binding to the transcription factors,e.g.,transcriptional enhanced associate domain(TEAD),Smad,runt-related transcription factor 1/2,p73,p63,and Erb84,to maintain tissue homeostasis.The translocalization of YAP1 in cellular nuclei and the phosphorylation in the cytoplasm work as important and unusual events for the activation of YAP1.Moreover,YAP1 serves as the crosstalk for the Hippo pathway and other signaling pathways,including the Wnt and Notch pathways.It is highlighted in this review that YAP1 is an essential regulator for stem cells that have significant applications in regenerative medicine and reproductive medicine.
基金Major Science and Technology Projects in Hainan Province(ZDKJ2017007)Hainan Natural Science Foundation(2019CXTD408)。
文摘The activation and development of primordial follicles is the key to the maturation of female gametes.Premature ovarian insufficiency(POI)patients are unable to complete the primordial follicle activation and development due to follicular dormancy and unbalanced developmental regulation in the body,leading to female infertility.Ovarian tissue in vitro activation(IVA)technology has become a new way to solve the problem of patients who cannot auto-activate primordial follicles to obtain their own mature oocytes.In IVA research,signaling pathways such as PI3K/PTEN/Akt and Hippo have become the focus of current research.This review will describe the relevant research progress and clinical application of the IVA mechanism,and provide a reference for clinical research on ovarian tissue culture and activation in vitro.
基金Hainan Provincial Science and Technology Plan(Clinical Medical Research Center)Project(No.LCYX202102)。
文摘Objective:To investigate the effects of female body mass index on embryo development and assisted reproductive technology outcomes,aiming to provide better treatment for patients with different body mass index and provide reference for clinical treatment.Methods:The study retrospectively collected data of 3783 patients who received their first fresh embryo transfer and were ovulated by a long protocol at the Reproductive Medicine Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University from January 2015 to October 2021.Patients were divided into four groups based on body mass index(BMI):low weight group,normal weight group,overweight group and obese group.The normal weight group was used as a control to compare the basic information,assisted reproductive technology process,embryo development and assisted reproductive technology outcomes between different groups.Results:Analyzing patients'basic information,we found that the duration of infertility was significantly longer in obese women(P=0.007).Basal hormone levels in the overweight and obese groups were lower than those in the normal group(P<0.05).Basal Follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH),basal Luteinizing hormone(LH),basal Estradiol(E2),basal Progesterone(P),and anti-Mullerian hormone(AMH)in the obese group were lower than the normal weight group(P<0.05),and the number of antral follicle counting(AFC)was reduced in the obese group(P=0.011).The overweight group only showed a decrease in E2 and P levels(P<0.05).During the ART,there was a significant difference in Gonadotropin(Gn)dosage among the four groups,with the obese group was the most,followed by the overweight group,and the low weight group was the least(P<0.001).Gn days were increased in the obese group(P<0.001).LH,E2,and P on trigger day were all lower in the overweight and obese groups than in the normal weight group(P<0.05).Comparing the embryo development process,we found that the blastocysts of the obese group showed delayed development at the stages of pronuclei disappearance,four-cell and blastocyst formation(P<0.05).The ART outcomes were worse in the obese group,the clinical pregnancy rate(P=0.044)and live birth rate(P=0.036)were reduced in the obese group.After logistic regression,obesity was found to be a risk factor for clinical pregnancy(OR=0.683,95%CI:0.479-0.973,P=0.035)and live birth(OR=0.662,95%CI:0.459-0.954,P=0.027).Female age was a risk factor for biochemical pregnancy,clinical pregnancy and live birth(P<0.05).Conclusion:Female obesity prolongs the duration of infertility,causes endocrine disorders,increases Gn dosage and days,and leads to poorer assisted reproductive technology outcomes.Female obesity delays the blastocyst development process and presents as a risk factor for clinical pregnancy and live birth.
基金the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation scheme under the Marie Sklodowska-Curie grant agreement No.801342(Tecniospring INDUSTRY,TECSPR-19-1-0003)the Ministry of Science and Innovation,Spain(AGL2017-88329-R and PID2020-113320RBI00)+2 种基金the Catalan Agency for Management of University and Research Grants,Regional Government of Catalonia,Spain(2017-SGR-1229)the Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies(ICREA)La Maratóde TV3 Foundation(214/857-202039)。
文摘Background:The analysis of chromatin integrity has become an important determinant of sperm quality.In frozenthawed bovine sperm,neither the sequence of post-thaw injury events nor the dynamics of different types of sperm DNA breaks are well understood.The aim of the present work was to describe such sperm degradation aftermath focusing on DNA damage dynamics,and to assess if this parameter can predict pregnancy rates in cattle.Results:A total of 75 cryopreserved ejaculates from 25 Holstein bulls were evaluated at two post-thawing periods(0-2 h and 2-4 h),analyzing global and double-stranded DNA damage through alkaline and neutral Comet assays,chromatin deprotamination and decondensation,sperm motility,viability,acrosomal status,and intracellular levels of total ROS,superoxides and calcium.Insemination of 59,605 females was conducted using sperm from the same bulls,thus obtaining the non-return to estrus rates after 90 d(NRR).Results showed an increased rate of double-stranded breaks in the first period(0-2 h:1.29±1.01%/h vs.2-4 h:0.13±1.37%/h;P<0.01),whereas the rate of sperm with moderate+high single-stranded breaks was higher in the second period(0-2 h:3.52±7.77%/h vs.2-4h:21.06±11.69%/h;P<0.0001).Regarding sperm physiology,viability decrease rate was different between the two periods(0-2 h:-4.49±1.79%/h vs.2-4 h:-2.50±3.39%/h;P=0.032),but the progressive motility decrease rate was constant throughout post-thawing incubation(0-2 h:-4.70±3.42%/h vs.2-4 h:-1.89±2.97%/h;P>0.05).Finally,whereas no correlations between bull fertility and any dynamic parameter were found,there were correlations between the NRR and the basal percentage of highly-damaged sperm assessed with the alkaline Comet(Rs=-0.563,P=0.003),between NRR and basal progressive motility(Rs=0.511,P=0.009),and between NRR and sperm with high ROS at 4 h post-thaw(Rs=0.564,P=0.003).Conclusion:The statistically significant correlations found between intracellular ROS,sperm viability,sperm motility,DNA damage and chromatin deprotamination suggested a sequence of events all driven by oxidative stress,where viability and motility would be affected first and sperm chromatin would be altered at a later stage,thus suggesting that bovine sperm should be used for fertilization within 2 h post-thaw.Fertility correlations supported that the assessment of global DNA damage through the Comet assay may help predict bull fertility.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81960283,82072880)。
文摘Co-signaling molecules are molecules whose ligands on the surface of cells interact with receptors on the surface of T cells to convey stimulatory or inhibitory signals to regulate immune responses.Co-signaling molecules play an important role in tumor and autoimmune diseases.Lately,studies have shown that co-signaling molecules are also involved in the regulation of maternal-fetal immune tolerance,and abnormalities of co-signaling molecules may lead to the imbalance of maternal-fetal immune tolerance,resulting in recurrent abortion,eclampsia and other pregnancy complications.ICOSL/ICOS is a ligand and receptor of costimulatory signals,which regulates maternal and fetal immune tolerance by participating in T cell differentiation and Th1 and Th2 cytokine secretion.Therefore,this article reviews the structure of ICOSL/ICOS,the distribution of ICOSL/ICOS at the maternal-fetal interface and its immune regulation during pregnancy,in order to provide new ideas for the future study of immunotherapy of pregnancy complications caused by abnormal co-signaling molecules.
